Visit contemporary historical sites in Paris
If you enjoy visiting historical sites, museums, and cafés, Paris is the perfect destination for you. The city is rich in history, encompassing everything from ancient Roman fortifications to traces of the Napoleonic Wars.
There are countless opportunities to learn and experience when you visit. After a day dedicated to discovering its historical treasures, you can unwind at one of its well-known cafes or parks. Here are the top 10 historical attractions to see in Paris, ensuring you fully enjoy this magnificent European capital.
10. La Conciergerie
At the heart of Paris’ The historic center, referred to as Île de la Cité, was home to La Conciergerie, which originally served as a Roman palace and later became the residence for Frankish kings starting in the 10th century. Over a span of four centuries, it expanded into a royal palace. During the 13th and 14th centuries, figures like Philip IV contributed new extensions to this impressive structure.
During the 14th century, the palace was transformed into a royal prison under the management of the royal concierge, which led to the establishment of the name La Conciergerie. From the 15th to the 19th centuries, it became one of the most infamous prisons in Europe, where notable inmates included the Marquise de Brinvilliers, the Countess de la Motte, and, most notably, Marie Antoinette.
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If you come by between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., you can take a guided tour of the historic palace and prison. This tour will lead you through the secret rooms where Marie Antoinette and other notable figures were kept in solitude. You’ll also have the chance to explore the Guardroom, the Gens d’Armes room, and the renowned medieval kitchens.
9. The Louvre Museum
The Louvre Museum offers more than just art; it invites visitors to explore thousands of years of artifacts that reflect not only French history but global history as well.
The Louvre originated as a medieval fortress in the 12th century, featuring strong walls and military barracks. By the 14th century, it was transformed into a royal residence and served as the palace for King Louis XIV of France. Following the French Revolution in 1791, it was established as a museum.
The museum features some of the most impressive collections of historical art and artifacts found anywhere in the world. In addition to viewing renowned artworks like the Mona Lisa, you can explore artifacts that narrate the story of human history. The museum is divided into nine curated sections, showcasing Egyptian relics, antiquities from Greece, Etruria, and Rome, as well as Islamic Art.
During your visit, you’ll find that you can easily dedicate an entire day to discovering its corridors. There are countless activities and experiences to enjoy, ranging from the exhibits to the historical architecture of the museum itself. Throughout the week, you can take advantage of a guided tour led by one of the museum’s knowledgeable guides.
8. Explore history at Les Invalides.
Just across the 19th-century Pont Alexandre III bridge lies the elaborate complex called Les Invalides. The structures and courtyard date back to the 17th century and were originally built to accommodate disabled veterans from France’s military conflicts in Europe and beyond. Constructed during the reign of King Louis XIV, Les Invalides features several stunning buildings and a central church known as the domed church, or Église du Dôme. Following the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars, this domed church was transformed into Napoleon Bonaparte’s tomb. Today, the complex is home to remarkable museums, including the Army Museum, the Museum of the Order of the Liberation, and the Museum of Relief Maps. Exploring the complex is one of the most thrilling activities in Paris for those interested in French military history.
7. Place de la Concorde
The French Revolution marked a significant turning point in European history. Notably, at Place de la Concorde, many members of the French royal family met their demise, with the most renowned among them being… Queen Marie-Antoinette and King Louis XVI. The square was initially created to showcase an equestrian statue of Louis XV. Following the revolution and various renamings, it was called Place de la Concorde in 1830. In 1836, a 75-foot-tall Luxor Obelisk, an authentic Egyptian structure, was placed in the middle of the square, along with two decorative fountains.
The Place de la Concorde is a distinct area that has witnessed many significant events in French history. Covering nearly 20 acres, it is the largest square in the city. It continues to host activities like military parades and sporting events.
6. The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is the most recognizable landmark in Paris. Standing at 984 feet, it towers over the city’s skyline. Constructed in 1989, it took just two years to complete. At the time of its creation, this massive structure was unprecedented, inspiring architects globally to pursue the design of taller edifices.
The tower is upheld by four sections of lattice girders made from wrought iron, which together create a unified structure at the top. It was designed by the renowned bridge engineer Gustave Eiffel, after whom it is named. The French government sought a monument to honor the Paris World’s Fair In 1889, Eiffel presented his design, which was both cost-effective and impressive. As a result, the French authorities concluded that it was an ideal choice.
The tower continues to attract millions of tourists from around the world each year. For those who appreciate French culture and architectural history, a visit is essential. In addition to gaining insights into its construction and historical importance, you’ll also enjoy some of the finest views of the city from its observation deck.
5. Explore the Catacombs of Paris.
As Paris expanded in the 18th century, its cemeteries exceeded their limits and created significant health problems for the city. To address this issue, a new burial site was established in the former Tombe-Issoire rock quarries located south of the city center. Soon after, officials began to excavate some of the city’s largest cemeteries, including Saints-Innocents. The bones were secretly moved to the catacombs at night to minimize public disturbance, and once there, they were placed in organized piles by workers. Exploring the catacombs offers one of the most exciting historical experiences in the city, as visitors can learn about the catacomb’s history, the city’s cemeteries, and the unique quarries that lie beneath Paris.
4. Take a moment to admire the Notre Dame Cathedral.
In the center of Paris is Notre Dame de Paris The grand cathedral is regarded as one of the most remarkable structures globally. Its construction spanned from 1160 to 1250, and upon its completion, it ranked among the largest buildings in Europe. The site previously housed two medieval churches and, during the Roman era, a temple dedicated to Jupiter. Notably, it was also the location where Napoleon declared himself emperor in 1804.
Since that time, it has experienced a significant amount of historical events and has been restored multiple times. Today, it stands as one of the most striking representations of Gothic architecture in Europe. Additionally, it serves as a prominent tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors to the city each year. In 2019, a large fire consumed Notre Dame de Paris, capturing the attention of people worldwide. The restored cathedral is scheduled to reopen to the public in 2024.
3. Sainte Chapelle
King Louis IX built this Gothic A remarkable work of art located in the heart of Île de la Cité, Paris’ historic center, the Grand Chapel is among the city’s oldest structures and exemplifies early Gothic architecture. Throughout its history, the chapel has fulfilled various roles, the most notable being its function as a repository for relics acquired during France’s crusades in the Middle East. During the French Revolution, the chapel was invaded and looted, and it was repurposed as a storage facility for goods. Following a prolonged period of neglect, a restoration was spearheaded in 1840 by French writer Victor Hugo and other scholars.
The chapel is now considered a historical and architectural gem that deserves a visit. Its stained glass windows, interior design, exterior, and artistic embellishments create a one-of-a-kind attraction. Daily tours are available, providing an excellent opportunity to explore its history and its significance in the city’s medieval culture.
2. Arc de Triomphe
After Napoleon Bonaparte After expanding the borders of his new empire, he constructed a massive arch in his flourishing capital. The famous architect Jean-François-Thérèse Chalgrin designed this monument, which stands 164 feet tall and 148 feet wide. The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most prominent landmarks in the city. From the roundabout around it, 12 main avenues radiate throughout the city. Since its completion, it has been the site of parades, festivities, and even invasions, including the somber events of World War II. occupation During your visit, you can choose between a self-guided tour or a guided tour. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the indoor spaces and ascend to the observation deck above.
1. Café de Flore à Paris
Almost all literary hubs have their famous gathering spots, like Buenos Aires’ Café Tortoni or Vienna’s Café Landtmann. In Paris, that place is Café de Flore. Here, renowned literary figures both from Paris and around the world, including Louis Aragon, Ernest Hemingway, Charles Maurras, and Jacques Prévert, created their celebrated works. Established in 1887, it quickly became a focal point for intellectuals and influential personalities in Paris. The café is a modest, sit-down venue known for its croissants, beverages, and coffee. Alongside the well-known writers, it also attracted artists such as Pablo Picasso It’s difficult to find another establishment with such a rich history, as it has hosted actors like Jack Nicholson and prominent political figures over the past two centuries.
If you’re passionate about historical sites, museums, and charming cafés, then Paris is the perfect destination for you. The city is rich in history, featuring everything from ancient Roman fortifications to artifacts from the Napoleonic Wars.
When you visit, there is a wealth of knowledge and experiences to discover. After spending your day exploring its historical treasures, you can relax at one of its renowned cafes or parks. Here are the top 10 historical sites in Paris to help you make the most of this amazing European capital.
10. La Conciergerie
At the heart of Paris’ The historic center, called Île de la Cité, was home to La Conciergerie, which originally served as a Roman palace before becoming the residence of Frankish kings starting in the 10th century. Over the course of four centuries, it expanded into a royal palace. During the 13th and 14th centuries, prominent figures like Philip IV contributed to its impressive structure by making various additions.
In the 14th century, the palace transformed into a royal prison overseen by the royal concierge, which led to the name La Conciergerie becoming established. Between the 15th and 19th centuries, it became one of the most infamous prisons in Europe, holding well-known inmates like the Marquise de Brinvilliers, the Countess de la Motte, and most notably, Marie Antoinette.
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If you come by between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., you can take part in a guided tour of the historic palace and prison. The tour will lead you through secret chambers where Marie Antoinette and other notable individuals were confined. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to explore the Guardroom, the Gens d’Armes room, and the renowned medieval kitchens.
9. The Louvre Museum
The Louvre Museum is not just an art gallery. It offers visitors the opportunity to explore a vast array of artifacts spanning thousands of years, reflecting not only French history but also the history of the entire globe.
The Louvre originated as a medieval fortress in the 12th century, characterized by its strong walls and military barracks. In the 14th century, it was transformed into a royal residence and served as the palace for King Louis XIV of France. Following the French Revolution in 1791, the palace was repurposed into a museum.
The museum contains some of the most remarkable collections of historical art and artifacts globally. Visitors can view renowned pieces like the Mona Lisa and discover items that narrate the story of human history. It features nine curated sections, including Egyptian artifacts, antiquities from Greece, Etruria, and Rome, as well as Islamic art.
During your visit, you can easily dedicate a full day to exploring the museum’s halls. There are countless activities and experiences to enjoy, ranging from the exhibits to the museum’s historic architecture. Additionally, throughout the week, you can participate in a tour led by one of the knowledgeable guides.
8. Explore History at Les Invalides
Located just across the Pont Alexandre III bridge, built in the 19th century, is the elaborately designed complex known as Les Invalides. Dating back to the 17th century, the buildings and courtyard were constructed to accommodate disabled veterans from France’s military campaigns both in Europe and abroad. Commissioned by King Louis XIV, the complex features several stunning structures alongside a central church, which is referred to as the domed church or Église du Dôme. Following the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars, this domed church was transformed into Napoleon Bonaparte’s tomb. Today, Les Invalides is home to an array of fascinating museums, including the Army Museum, the Museum of the Order of the Liberation, and the Museum of Relief Maps. Exploring this complex is a thrilling experience for anyone interested in French military history while visiting Paris.
7. Place de la Concorde
The French Revolution marked a significant turning point in Europe. At the Place de la Concorde, numerous French royals faced their destiny, most notably… Queen Marie-Antoinette and King Louis XVI. The square was initially created to showcase an equestrian statue of Louis XV. Following the revolution and various renamings, it was officially named Place de la Concorde in 1830. In 1836, a 75-foot-tall Luxor Obelisk, which is an ancient Egyptian obelisk, was installed at the center of the square, accompanied by two decorative fountains.
The Place de la Concorde is a remarkable location that has been witness to many significant events in French history. Covering nearly 20 acres, it is the largest square in the city. Visitors can still partake in various events, including military parades and sports competitions, at this site.
6. The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is the most recognizable landmark in Paris. Standing at 984 feet, it towers over the city’s skyline. Completed in 1989 after just two years of construction, this monumental structure was unprecedented at the time of its creation, inspiring architects globally to create taller designs.
The tower is upheld by four sections of wrought iron lattice girders that come together to create a unified structure at the top. It was designed by the renowned bridge engineer Gustave Eiffel, after whom it is named. The French government aimed to create a monument to honor the Paris World’s Fair In 1889, Eiffel presented his design, which was both cost-effective and impressive, leading the French authorities to conclude that it would be an ideal choice.
The tower remains a prominent international tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors each year. For those passionate about French and architectural history, a trip here is essential. Not only will you gain insight into its construction and importance, but you’ll also experience one of the finest panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
5. Explore the Catacombs of Paris.
During the 18th century, as Paris expanded, its cemeteries exceeded their capacity, leading to significant health problems within the city. To address this issue, the city established a new burial site in the old Tombe-Issoire rock quarries located south of the city center. Shortly thereafter, officials began excavating some of Paris’s largest burial grounds, including the Saints-Innocents cemetery. The bones were secretly transported to the catacombs at night to avoid disturbing the public and were then placed in the quarries, where workers organized them into neat piles. Exploring the catacombs offers an exciting historical experience, allowing visitors to learn about their history, the city’s cemeteries, and the unique tunnels that were excavated beneath the streets.
4. Admire the Notre Dame Cathedral.
In the center of Paris is Notre Dame de Paris The impressive cathedral is regarded as one of the greatest structures globally. Its construction took place from 1160 to 1250, and upon its completion, it was among the largest buildings in Europe. The site was previously occupied by two medieval churches and, in Roman times, the temple dedicated to Jupiter. Notably, this cathedral was where Napoleon crowned himself emperor in 1804.
Since that time, it has experienced a significant amount of history and has been restored multiple times. Currently, it stands as one of the most striking examples of Gothic architecture in Europe. It also serves as a major tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors to the city annually. In 2019, a tremendous fire took hold of Notre Dame de Paris, capturing global attention. The renovated cathedral is scheduled to reopen to the public in 2024.
3. Sainte Chapelle
King Louis IX built this Gothic A remarkable work located in the heart of Île de la Cité, Paris’ historic center, the Grand Chapel is among the city’s oldest structures and a significant representation of early Gothic architecture. Throughout its history, the chapel has fulfilled various roles, the most notable being the storage of relics acquired during France’s crusades in the Middle East. During the French Revolution, the chapel was invaded and looted, repurposed as a warehouse for goods. After a period of deterioration, restoration efforts were spearheaded in 1840 by French author Victor Hugo and several scholars.
The chapel is now recognized as a historical and architectural gem that is definitely worth a visit. Its stained glass windows, interior design, exterior, and artistic embellishments contribute to its distinct appeal. Daily tours are available, providing an excellent opportunity to discover its history and the significant role it had in the city’s medieval culture.
2. Arc de Triomphe
After Napoleon Bonaparte After expanding the borders of his new empire, he commissioned the construction of a massive arch in his bustling capital. The famous architect Jean-François-Thérèse Chalgrin designed this impressive monument, which stands 164 feet tall and 148 feet wide. The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most remarkable landmarks in the city. Twelve major avenues radiate from its roundabout throughout the urban landscape. Since its completion, it has witnessed parades, festivities, and even invasions, including the poignant events of World War II. occupation by Nazi Germany. During your visit, you can choose between a self-guided tour or a guided one. You will have the opportunity to explore the interior rooms and ascend to the observation deck at the top.
Café de Flore à Paris
Nearly every literary city features its own legendary gathering spots, like Café Tortoni in Buenos Aires or Café Landtmann in Vienna. In Paris, that spot is Café de Flore. Here, renowned literary figures from Paris and around the world, including Louis Aragon, Ernest Hemingway, Charles Maurras, and Jacques Prévert, created their celebrated works. Since its opening in 1887, it quickly became a hub for intellectuals and prominent individuals in Paris. The café is a straightforward sit-down venue known for its croissants, beverages, and coffee. Alongside the famous writers, various artists also frequented the café, such as Pablo Picasso It’s rare to find a single establishment that has such a rich history, with notable figures like Jack Nicholson and significant political leaders from the past two hundred years having visited here.
